JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Sanitation Worker Department: Public Works Reports to: Foreman – Sanitation FLSA Status: Nonexempt Salary Grade: 10A 2026 Wage: $21.37 per hour
JOB SUMMARY
This position performs duties associated with the collection, transport and/or disposal of solid waste.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Operates or accompanies a solid waste collection truck along an assigned route. Loads solid waste onto a truck. Unloads garbage at county landfill. Performs pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections. Performs minor equipment maintenance. Assists with street maintenance as needed. Assists in trimming and removing trees and brush. Assists with snow removal operations. Assists in setting up for special events. Performs related duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION
Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures. Knowledge of hazardous materials identification principles. Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles and equipment. Skill in the use of hand and power tools. Skill in oral and written communication.
SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
The Supervisor – Solid Waste or Sanitation Truck Driver assigns work in terms of somewhat general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with instructions and established procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.
GUIDELINES Guidelines include city and department rules and regulations. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application.
COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK
The work consists of related duties in the collection and transport of solid waste. Inclement weather and heavy traffic contribute to the complexity of the position. The purpose of this position is to participate in the collection, transport and disposal of solid waste. Successful performance helps ensure the efficient and safe disposal of solid waste.
CONTACTS Contacts are typically with co-workers and the general public. Contacts are typically to resolve problems and provide services.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work is typically performed while intermittently standing, stooping, bending, crouching, or walking. The employee frequently lifts medium and heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, and must distinguish between shades of color. The work is typically performed outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee may be exposed to noise, dust, dirt, and grease, machinery with moving parts, contagious or infectious diseases, or irritating chemicals. Personal protective equipment such as goggles and gloves will be made available.
SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY
None.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from high school or possession of GED and experience in performing heavy, manual labor. Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position. Possession and maintenance of a valid commercial driver’s license issued by the State of South Dakota for the type of vehicle or equipment operated (Class B with Airbrakes and N-Tanker Endorsement) within six (6) months of employment.
RESIDENCY All new hires must reside within 40 miles of city limits unless specific approval of City Manager.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I acknowledge that I have received and reviewed this job description. I understand that this job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required for the position. I understand that job duties, responsibilities, and assignments may change at any time based on the needs of the City and in accordance with applicable policies, contracts, ordinances, or collective bargaining agreements. I further acknowledge that I am able to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
OPENING DATE: November 4, 2026 CLOSING DATE: November 18, 2026
To apply for this position, please complete the application and submit it by either emailing it to hr@aberdeen.sd.us or delivering it to the Human Resources office in City Hall. For more information, view the full job description.